5 DIY Workbenches for Your Garage

When it comes to garage tool storage, it doesn’t get more basic and essential than a workbench. A workbench serves a versatile purpose, storing carpentry tools and providing a surface for woodworking and other manual projects.

There are plenty of workbenches out there to choose from, but another option is to build your own. Here are five DIY workbenches to consider for your garage.

Stowaway Workbench

Need a workbench with plenty of storage that also won’t take up too much space in your garage? A stowaway workbench is exactly the type of garage tool storage for you. This simple, space-saving workbench folds up when you’re not using it, which also serves to keep your tools hidden and protected.

Click here to learn how to build this stowaway workbench from Family Handyman.

Mobile Workbench

Perhaps you don’t want to be stuck in the confines of your garage when you’re working on projects. Or maybe you share your garage workspace with a car and need to be able to move it around. With a mobile workbench, you can easily wheel everything anywhere you may want it. There are no bells and whistles with this DIY workbench, but it’s sturdy, sleek and spacious enough to fit most needs.

Click here to learn how to build this mobile workbench from Build Something.

Kids Workbench

It’s never too soon to start the kids out with their own workbench! If you have a future carpenter on your hands, this would be a great surprise for them. It’s also a fun way for them to bond with Mom or Dad when they’re at their full-size workbench. Don’t worry, just because your child has a workbench doesn’t mean you need to equip them with real tools. You can always stock the workbench with plastic tools until they’re ready for the real thing.

Click here to learn how to build this kids workbench from Fix This Build That.

Flip-top Workbench

If you require a place for stationary tools, a flip-top workbench is the garage tool storage you never knew you were missing. This workbench conserves space by providing a dual platform for bench-top tools. The revolving center section holds tools on both sides, so all you have to do is flip it depending on which one you need to use.

Click here to learn how to build this flip-top workbench from Family Handyman.

Adjustable Workbench

You’ve surely heard of adjustable stand-up desks, but what if we told you there are DIY workbenches that are also adjustable? This type of workbench is super versatile, making it perfect for a variety of different projects.

Click here to learn how to build this adjustable workbench from Auto Desk.

There are so many different ways to utilize garage space, a workbench being just one of them. No matter how you use your garage, it’s important to protect the items inside it. You can do that by getting regular maintenance on your garage door to ensure that it’s working properly. Call Champion Overhead Door today to learn more about our maintenance services and to schedule an appointment!

5 Clever Garden Tool Storage Solutions

With spring in full bloom, it’s the perfect time of year for yard work and gardening. As you’re hauling all those tools in and out of your garage, you may find yourself wishing you had a better garden tool storage solution in place. Fortunately, there are plenty of easy ways to organize and store your tools, and most of them can be completed with inexpensive materials and a little bit of DIY know-how.

Here are five DIY yard tool storage solutions to consider for your garage:

Slat Wall

One of the biggest advantages of a slat wall is that it’s incredibly versatile. You can affix all different kinds of bins, baskets and hooks to satisfy a variety of garden tool storage needs. As your tool and supply collection grows, simply add to the wall. You can even add some character to your slat wall by painting it a funky color or decorating it, like this gorgeous slat wall over at A Beautiful Mess.

Pallet for Long-Handled Tools

Without a proper store space, you may notice that long-handled tools won’t always just stay propped up against your garage wall. After you or your car has been hit from a falling rake, you’ll probably be looking for the right way to keep these tools in place once and for all.

Fortunately, all you need is a pallet, a few screws and a drill for this easy DIY project. Simply attach the pallet vertically against one of your garage walls, being sure to use screws long enough to extend through the pallet and the wall. Since the pallet is relatively light, you won’t need to use too many screws to get the job done.

Pallet for Long-Handled Tools

Another excellent option for long-handled tool storage involves purchasing a few concrete form tubes, which you can find for under $10 apiece at any home improvement store. Use plumbing straps to secure the tubes to the garage wall and then fill them up with those long-handled tools.

Wheelbarrow Wall Storage

A wheelbarrow can take up a lot of space on the floor of your garage, which is why we recommend hanging it on the wall. This simple hack from LumberJocks uses scraps of plywood, hardwood and a few drywall screws to create wheelbarrow wall storage.

Caddy for Transporting Garden Tools

When you’re ready to transport your garden tools from the garage to your yard, an old golf bag makes an excellent garden gear caddy. It’s deep enough to hold long-handled tools, and the outer pockets can accommodate some of the smaller items you may need. Just load it up and wheel it out to your yard all in one trip instead of having to go back and forth grabbing all that gear.

While storing garden tools and other items in your garage, it’s important to make sure you have a secure space where your investments remain protected. At Champion Overhead Door, we provide residential repairs and maintenance to ensure that your garage door is always functioning properly. If you are having any issues with your garage door, contact us today!

Understanding the Different Types of Commercial Overhead Doors

We blog a lot about our residential services, but did you know that Champion Overhead Door also provides a wide array of commercial services? If you’re in need of an overhead door for your business, whether it’s a warehouse or a garage or anything else, it’s good to know your options. In today’s post, we’ll take a look at the different types of commercial overhead doors and how they’re commonly used.

Commercial Overhead Doors vs. Residential Garage Doors

Before we dive into the various types of commercial overhead doors, let’s take a look at what separates them from the residential garage doors you typically see on many homes. The differences can be summarized as follows:

• Size. While sizes of garage doors can vary for both residential and commercial uses, commercial overhead doors are usually higher to accommodate the loading and unloading of equipment and supplies. The door itself tends to be thicker, too, so that it can withstand more wear and tear.


• Frequency of Use. A residential garage door may only be used once in the morning and once at night, compared to a commercial overhead door which could realistically be opened and closed dozens of times a day. For this reason, commercial overhead doors must be stronger and sturdier. 


• Features. Aesthetics tend to be a lot more important for residential garage doors than commercial overhead doors, so there aren’t quite as many options for the latter. Still, there are a few common types of commercial overhead doors to choose from.

Types of Commercial Overhead Doors

• Sectional Doors. Made of galvanized steel panels and plenty of internal insulation, sectional doors offer the benefits of noise reduction and thermal isolation. With many different styles to choose from, this is a great choice if you are in need of a heavy-duty overhead door capable of withstanding the elements.


• Roll-Up Doors. These overhead doors consist of thin but durable metal slats that roll into a single coil, perfect for if you’re dealing with limited space. Roll-up doors are most commonly used on buildings where security is a high priority. They’re also extremely protective against the weather.


• Fire-Rated Doors. Similar to roll-up doors in features and operation, fire-rated doors provide an even greater level of protection. They’re constructed of thick stainless steel that is well-insulated, fire-resistant and noise-resistant.


• Security Grilles. These aluminum or galvanized steel options come in side or upward folding models. They provide security and protection, but not as much coverage as other overhead door options. This is the type of door you’ll often see in an airport concourse or at a mall.

Here at Champion Overhead Door, we provide sales, installation, service and maintenance of overhead doors and openers, including all the types of commercial overhead doors listed above. We carry high-quality products from industry leaders like C.H.I. Overhead Door, New England Door LLC, Amarr, Wayne Dalton, Haas Doors, Liftmaster and Chamberlain Products. 

If you have any questions about different garage doors for commercial or residential settings, or if you’re ready to schedule an installation, give us a call today!

Garage Door Maintenance: How to Clean Your Garage Door

A major part of garage door maintenance involves cleaning your garage door, ideally about twice a year. With spring in full bloom, there’s no better time to complete this task, particularly after another long New England winter, when all that moisture and salt can accumulate on the outer surface and leave lasting damage.

Read on to learn why it’s important to wash your garage door, and how to best get the job done the next time you have a free morning or afternoon.

Reasons to Clean Your Garage Door

Washing your garage door regularly is a simple way to increase curb appeal. But the major reasons for conducting this type of garage door maintenance go beyond simple aesthetics. A garage door is an investment, and cleaning yours can help protect that investment by prolonging the finish and potentially even maintaining the warranty if that applies to you. It’s also an effective way to prevent rust, which occurs when debris builds up over time.

How to Clean Your Garage Door

Now that you understand the importance of cleaning your garage door, here are some instructions for how to complete this task simply and effectively.

Use a Mild Cleaning Solution

When it comes to cleaning your garage door, a mild detergent such as dishwasher soap or car wash soap is more than enough to get the job done. In fact, it’s important to never use abrasive cleaners, which can cause irreparable damage to the painted surface. You’ll also want to avoid pressure washers for this same reason.

We recommend dissolving one cup of low-phosphate detergent into about two gallons of water to create your cleaning solution. Be sure to use gentle sponges and clean cloths to further prevent any damage.

Clean All Parts of Your Garage Door

Adequate garage door maintenance means washing more than just the surface of the garage door. There are many different parts of the garage door that contribute to its proper function, and it’s necessary to keep them all clean and free of debris. Remove leaves and dirt from the garage door tracks to keep it opening and closing with ease. Wipe down the photo eye sensors, which are necessary in preventing accidents. Clear away any buildup on the weatherstripping to keep it in good condition.

Wax Your Garage Door

When cleaning metal and fiberglass garage doors, we always recommend waxing your garage door after cleaning it. This adds a protective coating that guards against the harshness of the elements and helps prevent wear and tear. Any good-quality automotive wax should also be suitable for a garage door.

Cleaning your garage door is a perfect opportunity to conduct other garage door maintenance as well, such as inspecting for signs of proper functionality. If you notice any potential problems, the team at Champion Overhead Door is always here to help with any repair and maintenance your garage door may require over the years. We even offer 24-hour emergency services if that’s something that you need. Give us a call today to schedule a visit!

Garage Pest Control: How to Keep Bugs and Rodents Out of Your Garage

Having a pest problem inside the house is one of a homeowner’s worst nightmares. Whether it’s rodents or insects, both can wreak havoc to their surroundings, potentially resulting in lasting damage. This is why it’s so important to be prepared with pest control solutions that eliminate these unwanted visitors and prevent them from coming back.

While focusing on pest-proofing the interior of your home is essential, it’s equally important to extend your efforts to the garage. So whether you are actively trying to get rid of mice in your garage because you saw one scamper by, or you are simply looking to take proactive steps to prevent a future insect infestation, read on to discover why pests are so attracted to this part of your home and learn how to transform your garage into a pest-proof space!

Why are pests drawn to a garage?

You may notice that your garage is more prone to attracting pests than other parts of your home. There are a few key reasons for this:

1. Easy access. The garage often serves as a convenient access point for pests, providing protection from harsh weather conditions and potential predators.
2. Attractive environment. Pests are naturally drawn to dark, moist, and warm environments—conditions commonly found in garages, making them ideal for breeding and nesting.
3. Enticing odors. Garbage cans frequently placed in garages emit odors from food and waste. To humans, these odors are unappealing at best, but pests and rodents often smell a feast! This is especially true if you store common outdoor items like birdseed in your garage. Small rodents, especially mice, can hone in on these extra-yummy scents and be drawn to your garage because of it.

How to create a pest-proof garage

Now that you have a better understanding of why pests are drawn to your garage, you can begin implementing various methods of garage pest control. Here is what we recommend:

1. Deep clean your garage. Conducting a thorough cleaning of your garage will not only help to rid the space of any pests that are currently there, it’s also a good way to eliminate any garbage, moisture or materials that may be attracting them in the first place.
2. Seal any cracks in your garage. One of the most common ways that pests enter a garage is through cracks in the windows, walls, floor and doorways. Once you identify these cracks, you should reinforce the area to block access for unwanted visitors.
3. Inspect your garage door. Along the same lines as filling any cracks, it’s important to make sure that your garage door seals tightly so that there is minimal space between the bottom of the door and the floor of the garage. If you need assistance with this task, or if you find that you are in need of a new garage door, please don’t hesitate to contact Champion Overhead Door.
4. Use pest control products. Even with a clean and well-sealed garage, using pest control products is advisable to catch any unwanted creepy crawlies that are trying to make their way in. This can include solutions like spraying around the perimeter for insects and laying traps inside your space if you have mice in the garage. That way, you have protection both inside and outside, creating multiple lines of defense.
5. Regular maintenance. Unfortunately, pest control isn’t a one-and-done task. To maintain a pest-free garage, repeat these steps every few months. Consistency is key to preserving a clean, sealed, and pest-proof space.

Transforming your garage into a pest-proof environment is vital for preserving the integrity of your home. By understanding the reasons behind pest attraction and implementing effective home pest control measures, including techniques for dealing with mice and bugs in the garage, you can reclaim this space and enjoy a pest-free sanctuary. Stay proactive and vigilant, and you’ll ensure that your garage remains a haven for your belongings, rather than unwanted pests.